New Delhi, February 25: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a significant operation targeting a large cyber fraud network, resulting in the arrest of three suspects involved in a ‘digital arrest‘ scam worth approximately ₹1.86 crore. This case stems from a fraudulent incident involving an elderly man in Kottayam, Kerala, where cybercriminals posed as government officials during a video call, instilling fear of a ‘digital arrest’ to extort money.
Through digital forensic investigations and financial tracking, the CBI uncovered a complex network that spans multiple states and may have international connections. On February 25, 2026, the agency conducted simultaneous search and arrest operations, focusing on mule bank accounts and a network of fake SIM cards.
Raids were carried out in Goa, Bengaluru (Karnataka), Palakkad (Kerala), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Hyderabad (Telangana), and Delhi. Authorities searched several locations, seizing digital devices, debit cards, bank account documents, and other suspicious items. A thorough investigation of the evidence is currently underway.
Among those arrested is a mule account operator caught at a hotel in Goa, suspected of playing a significant role in laundering fraud proceeds and facilitating cryptocurrency transactions. Numerous digital devices were recovered from him. In Nagpur, a shell company operator was apprehended for managing mule accounts through a fictitious business. A large number of debit cards and devices were found at that location.
Additionally, a SIM card fraud facilitator was arrested in Bengaluru, who deceived individuals under the guise of a ‘5G SIM upgrade.’ He fraudulently activated SIM cards using fake KYC documents, which were later utilized in cyber fraud schemes, primarily initiated from abroad.
The CBI states that the investigation is ongoing, and efforts are being made to identify domestic and international accomplices to dismantle the extensive cyber fraud infrastructure. This operation marks a crucial step towards breaking down the entire system behind the ‘digital arrest’ scam. The agency is committed to rigorously pursuing organized cybercriminals to maintain public trust in digital systems.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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